Monster Energy is a popular energy drink that aims to provide its customers with a “big bad buzz” by combining the right ingredients.
It is undoubtedly a popular choice among newcomers to energy drinks, and it is frequently people’s first introduction to the world of energy drinks in general.
Monster Energy’s standard 16 oz can contain 160mg caffeine and 54g sugar, as well as a few other ingredients like taurine, guarana, and Panax ginseng extract, to name a few.
That being said, let’s dive into a more in-depth analysis in which I break down not only the nutrition facts but also the ingredients, and some more information about Monster Energy Drink.
What Is Monster Energy Drink?
Monster Energy is an energy drink created in April 2002 by Hansen Natural Company. Monster Energy had a 35% share of the energy drink market in March 2019, the second-highest share after Red Bull.
It is well-known for its sponsorship and support of extreme sports events such as Bellator MMA, UFC, MotoGP, BMX, motocross, Motorcycle speedway, skateboarding, snowboarding, and the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series (2017–19).
McLean Design, a strategic branding firm based in California, created the design. The logo is made up of a vibrant green “M” made up of three lines on a black background.
The “M” is stylized in such a way that it appears to be formed by a monster’s claws ripping through the cauldron.
Size Of Monster Energy Drink
Monster energy drink comes in a (33.81 mg / 100 mL) size can, or a 16 oz can. The caffeine amount differs in both sizes, alongside the price.
The 100ml serving contains 10mg of caffeine, whereas the 16 oz can contain 160mg of caffeine.
What Is The Price of Monster Energy Drink
Monster kicks things off with an oversized 16-ounce option. The price of 24 16-ounce Monster cans is roughly the same as the price of 12 16-ounce Red Bull cans. On average, Monster costs half the price of Red Bull.
It’s a more affordable option than many other well-known energy drinks. Let’s have a look at its average prices.
| Type | Size | Avg Price |
|---|---|---|
| Monster Energy Drink | 24 x 16 oz | $31.98 – $35.98 |
| Monster Rehab Tea + Energy | 24 x 16 oz | $34.78 – $38.49 |
| Monster Energy Ultra | 24 x 16 oz | $33.49 – $38.49 |
| Monster Energy Juice | 24 x 16 oz | $35.49 – $38.49 |
| Monster Energy Punch | 24 x 16 oz | $35.49 – $38.49 |
| Java Monster | 12 x 15 oz | $26.99 – $29.99 |
| Monster Dragon Tea | 24 x 16 oz | $38.49 – $39.49 |
| Muscle Monster | 12 x 15 oz | $26.99 – $29.99 |
| Monster Energy Hydro Sports Drink | 12 x 25.5 oz | $39.99 – $42.99 |
| Monster Energy MAXX | 12 x 12 oz | $20.89 – $22.89 |
Monster is also available in packs of 6, 12, and 24. A pack of 12 cans would roughly cost $19.98, a pack of 6 would cost $10.48, and that of 24 would cost $39.75.
The bundle deals can easily be found and bought from online stores like Walmart and Amazon.
Ingredients In Monster Energy Drink
While many of the ingredients in Monster Energy Drink are difficult to pronounce, the majority are either natural or synthetically produced natural ingredients.
Monster now has a long and growing list of flavors and variations, making it difficult to compile a single list of ingredients.
The following are the ingredients for a standard can of Monster:
- Water (Carbonated)
- Sucrose and Glucose
- Citric Acid
- Natural Flavors
- Taurine
- Sodium Citrate
- Color
- Ginseng Root Extract
- L-Carnitine and L-Tartrate
- Caffeine
- Sorbic Acid
- Benzoic Acid
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
- Sodium Chloride
- Gluconolactone
- Inositol
- Guarana Seed Extract
- Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (a form of Vitamin 6)
- Riboflavin
- Maltodextrin
- Cyanocobalamin (a form of Vitamin B12)
Taurine
Taurine is a naturally occurring component of our metabolic system. It’s an amino acid that helps to make protein and has important roles in our heart and brain.
Taurine is also found in a variety of foods, including meat, fish, dairy products, and supplements. Athletes and those who exercise frequently require taurine to consume more protein.
A study, however, found that excessive consumption of taurine combined with caffeine can result in cardiac arrest. However, as long as you don’t go overboard and maintain a healthy lifestyle, drinking a Monster should be fine.
Ginseng
Panax Ginseng Root Extract is a fairly common energy drink ingredient and has been used as a herbal additive for various culinary cultures. It is commonly harvested in Korea, northeastern China, and far eastern Siberia.
It works by affecting various body systems with active ingredients such as ginsenosides or panaxosides, which is why it is referred to as a general well-being medication.
Panax Ginseng may provide the following benefits:
- improve cognitive abilities
- healing properties
- rich in antioxidants
- prevents flu and cold
Guarana Seed Extract
Guarana extract is a popular energy drink ingredient that is harvested from the Brazilian subcontinent. Guarana seeds contain caffeine, which is more potent than the caffeine found in coffee beans.
When concentrated, it can contain up to 3.6% to 5.8% caffeine, compared to 2% in coffee beans.
Guarana has the following advantages:
- reduces fatigue
- rich in antioxidants
- promotes weight loss
- relieves digestive problems
Caffeine In Monster Energy Drink
The amount of caffeine in a 16 fl. oz. can of Monster is 160mg, which is about average for an energy drink.
Caffeine, a relatively significant component of energy drinks, increases physical performance and general reaction times by attaching to the adenosine receptors in your brain and preventing you from feeling tired.
With 160 mg of caffeine per serving, Monster sets a respectable standard for the average caffeine content of an energy drink; it’s not as high as products like Bang or Reign, which have 300 mg per 16 fl. oz., but it’s still significantly higher than the caffeine content of a typical cup of coffee.
While a small amount of caffeine may be helpful for you, consuming a lot of it quickly can have negative effects like:
- restlessness and shakiness
- anxiety
- rapid heart rhythm
- dizziness
- headaches
- dehydration
The FDA has stated that for healthy adults, 400 milligrams per day—roughly four or five cups of coffee—is a level that is not typically linked to harmful, adverse effects.
Nutrition Facts Of Monster Energy Drink
Let’s now delve deeper into what makes Monster Energy unique. Here is the nutritional information in brief:
The following is a summary of the information on the back of the Monster Energy can:
| Typical Values | Monster Energy (16 fl.oz) |
| Energy | 210 calories |
| Fat (Of which Saturated) | 0g (0g) |
| Carbohydrates (Of which Sugars) | 54g (54g) |
| Caffeine | 160mg |
| Protein | 0g |
| Sodium | 370mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 3.6mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 46mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 4.6mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 13µg |
Calories
Monster Energy has a high-calorie content which has 210 calories.
A healthy adult typically only requires between 2000 and 2500 calories per day as a guide (depending on biological factors, daily activity, etc.).
Given that one serving of Monster contains 210 calories, drinking one can is the equivalent of eating 1/10th of your recommended daily intake of calories; great for giving you a boost, but not so great if you’re watching your diet.
B-Vitamins
B-Vitamins are present in Monster, as with any energy drink worth its salt, if only to give the impression that it is a little bit healthier to the general public.
The B-Vitamins and their nutritional value are listed in the table below, but you can read this helpful hub to learn more about B-Vitamins in general.
Types | Purpose | Amount (Per 16 fl.oz of Monster) |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | Keeps the skin healthy and aids in the body’s energy release. | 43mg/200% |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | Cell development, fat metabolism, and energy generation. | 5.05mg/200% |
| Vitamin B6 | Red blood cells are energy stores that are made of protein and carbohydrates. | 5.05mg/200% |
| Vitamin B12 | Releases energy from food produces red blood cells and keeps the nervous system in good shape. | 5.1µg/200% |
How Much Sugar Is Present In Monster Energy Drink?
Each 16 fl. oz. can of Monster Energy Drink contains 54g of sugar, which is a significant amount for an energy drink.
For reference, the AHA advises against consuming more than 24g of sugar per day for women and 36g per day for men. Therefore, one can of Monster Energy drink is far too much to consume.
To make the comparison clear, two Monster Energy cans are equal to two and a half tablespoons of sugar. I believe that is simply too much sugar for one day.
Overindulging in sugar can have negative effects, such as:
- acne
- tooth decay
- weight gain
- risk of diabetes
- high blood pressure
Is Monster Energy Gluten-free and Vegan?
Yes, Monster Energy is vegan and gluten-free.
Monster Energy’s ingredients are vegan-friendly, but some of them—most notably the sugar and artificial sweeteners—might cause some concern for vegans with higher ethical standards.
There are numerous flavors available that are all gluten-free, including the following selections:
- Monster Energy
- Lo-Carb Monster Energy
- Monster Energy Absolutely Zero
- Monster Assault Energy
- Import Monster Energy
- Energy Brew UberMonster
- Monster Energy Gronk
Alternatives To Monster
NOS
Since NOS has been around for a while, it has experienced many changes and seen competitors come and go, just like we have, and has managed to remain strong throughout.
There are a lot of calories (210) and sugar in it (54g). It is best to find another healthier option to add to your diet if you have been diagnosed with a heart condition or would like to reduce your sugar intake.
Each can contain 160mg of caffeine. That amounts to 10mg on average per 1 fl. oz.
OCA
OCA Energy is a reliable vegan energy drink free of dangerous chemicals.
It is powered by a cassava root extract made from tapioca that contains about 120 mg of caffeine.
The ingredients in this drink are all natural. It has about 60 calories and some sugar. Three flavors are also available.
Conclusion
- Monster Energy gives you the boost you need when you need it, but most people may hesitate because of its high sugar content, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
- You should exercise caution when consuming the 16 fl. oz. cans, which contain 210 calories, 90 mg of caffeine, 54 g of sugar, and 370 mg of sodium. This is mainly due to the potential side effects and health issues.
- Along with being vegan- and gluten-free-friendly, it offers a variety of exciting flavors.